Iodine & Salt | What role can they play our diet?
The micronutrient, Iodine, plays an important role in the human diet. But if iodine levels in foods are low, how can we successfully consume it?
Iodine is a mineral, which our body needs to make thyroid hormones. These hormones control the body’s metabolism and many other important functions. The body also needs thyroid hormones for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy.
Getting enough iodine is important for everyone, especially infants and women who are pregnant. However, iodine content in most foods is low. It is estimated that globally 1.8 billion people have insufficient iodine intake.
So what's a successful intervention for iodine consumption? Fortifying salt! About 86% of households worldwide consume iodized salt. The amount of iodine added to salt can be adjusted so that people maintain adequate iodine intake even if they consume less salt.
The American Thyroid Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that pregnant or breastfeeding women take a supplement every day containing 150 micrograms of iodine. The American Thyroid Association recommends women who are planning a pregnancy consume a daily iodine supplement starting at least 3 months in advance of pregnancy.
Wondering if you are getting the nutrients you need? Talk to your health care provider or set up an appointment with the nutrition team at Inspired Health Group!